James May’s Porsche 911 Carrera S For Sale With 31,000 Miles Is Packed With British Charm

James May’s cherished 997.2

James May is selling his much-loved 2010 Porsche 911 (997.2) Carrera S with around 31,000 miles on the clock, offering fans a rare chance to buy a car he has owned from new. The car is finished in Carrara White with an Ocean Blue extended leather interior and is described as a low-mileage, fully documented example that has been carefully maintained throughout his ownership.

Specification and character

Under the rear lid sits a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter flat-six producing about 380 horsepower, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox that many enthusiasts regard as a core part of this model’s appeal. The car also features a rare limited-slip rear differential and 19-inch Carrera Classic alloy wheels, contributing to what auction listings describe as a “purist” driver’s specification.

Options and equipment

From new, May specified the car with several technology and comfort options, including the Extended Navigation module for the PCM 3.0 system, a universal audio interface, and a Bose audio system. These options sit alongside the extended Ocean Blue leather cabin, emphasizing both long-distance comfort and the understated, slightly eccentric taste often associated with May’s public persona.

Condition and maintenance

The odometer shows just over 31,000 miles, and reports note that the car has clearly been well cared for during May’s long-term ownership. It has been stored in a garage and serviced by Porsche Centre West London and Number 5 Garage, with a major round of work in 2025 including new radiators, tires, coolant hoses, air-conditioning condensers and drier, plus fresh fluids, filters, gearbox oil, brake fluid, and wiper blades.

Market positioning and auction

Enthusiasts often regard the 997.2 Carrera S as a sweet spot in the naturally aspirated, water-cooled 911 range, combining an analogue driving feel with modern reliability and safety. Offered at no reserve via an online Collecting Cars auction closing on November 25, 2025, the car’s one-owner history and direct link to a well-known motoring presenter give it particular appeal to both collectors and driving enthusiasts.

James May’s own words

James May has spoken warmly about the 911, calling it a “wonderful thing” that is fast enough, beautifully balanced, and made more engaging by its manual gearbox. He explains that he is only selling it because he has too many cars and not enough space, framing the sale as a practical decision rather than a loss of affection for the car.

“I’ve had this 911 from new, and I’ve loved every mile of its life with me.” “I’m only parting with it because I have too many cars and not enough space – a common issue when you love cars.”

Author’s summary

A low-mileage, tastefully specced 2010 Porsche 997.2 Carrera S owned from new by James May is heading to a no-reserve auction, blending purist performance, careful maintenance, and strong enthusiast appeal.

Autoblog on MSN — 2025-11-24